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Health Minister Khaled Abdel Ghaffar Participates in One Health Summit 2026 in Lyon

Lyon: Minister of Health and Population Khaled Abdel Ghaffar participated in the ministerial session on antimicrobial resistance held as part of the 'One Health Summit 2026,' hosted in the French city of Lyon. According to State Information Service Egypt, the participation came at a high-level gathering that included representatives of governments, international organizations, and experts specializing in strengthening integration between human, animal, and environmental health. In his speech, the minister emphasized the summit as a crucial international platform that unites heads of state and government, international organizations, scientists, civil society representatives, and the private sector. The goal is to accelerate the global implementation of the 'One Health' approach, enhance international dialogue, support scientific research, and unify efforts to strengthen health systems, surveillance, and prevention of shared risks. He highlighted the pivotal role of innovation and multilateral partnerships, stressing the need to engage all stakeholders, including governments, academic institutions, civil society, and youth, in building resilient health systems capable of addressing growing challenges. Abdel Ghaffar noted that the 'One Health' approach has become a fundamental framework for addressing complex global challenges, foremost among them zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, sustainable food systems, and environmental risks, emphasizing the need for integrated solutions that go beyond traditional sectoral boundaries. He stressed Egypt's full support for this approach and its firm commitment to promoting it as a pillar of health security, achieving sustainable development goals, and enhancing preparedness for future threats. He noted that Egypt adopted the approach years ago by strengthening coordination among national and international entities to confront shared health risks. The minister recalled Egypt's hosting of the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP27) in Sharm El-Sheikh in 202 2, which resulted in the formulation of an integrated vision for implementing the 'One Health' approach and preparing a multi-sectoral strategy. He also referred to the launch of the National One Health Strategy (2023-2027), involving several ministries and focusing on strengthening institutional capacities, combating zoonotic diseases, addressing antimicrobial resistance, ensuring food and water safety, and integrating environmental and climate dimensions. He affirmed that the state is translating this approach into practical measures through initiatives, programs, and a multi-level governance structure that includes a ministerial committee, a higher coordination committee, and technical working groups to ensure effective coordination. In this context, Egypt is moving forward with implementing a national antimicrobial resistance action plan aligned with the World Health Organization's global plan. He also announced the launch of the One Health Field Epidemiology Training Program (FETP) aimed at building na tional workforce capacities and enhancing the readiness of health teams. Egypt is currently preparing an integrated communication strategy to raise awareness and promote the rational use of antibiotics across different sectors.